Overview
This career is ideal for those who enjoy being around people and have good problem-solving skills. HR professionals manage every aspect of the employment process. HR departments handle recruitment, training, compensation, employee retention, legal compliance and more. There are different career paths in HR, from generalists, to recruitment specialists, payroll specialists, analysts, employee relations managers and more.
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Areas of work: Human resources (HR)
Human resources (HR) work, covers all areas of people management from recruitment onwards. Because people management is integral to business success, the HR department is a key part of most large businesses, and HR managers work closely with senior management. The HR function covers a variety of different areas and in a large organisation you will be able to specialise.
Is a graduate career in human resources right for you?
HR offers a wealth of opportunities within every business sector. It is a competitive industry and an integral part of any successful organisation. Often involved in the execution of significant business change, HR professionals liaise with senior management on a daily basis to coordinate their organisation’s running.
You and your human resource management degree
A degree in human resource management will build your interpersonal and development skills. Every major organisation has an HR department, meaning opportunities for HRM graduates are plentiful across numerous industries as diverse as health, education, tourism, local authorities, banking, finance, engineering and media.
How do I get a graduate job in HR and recruitment?
A career in human resources is all about ensuring that an organisation has the best possible people to work for it, that their rights are protected and their benefits are effectively administered. Recruiters in HR are looking for individuals to look after important aspects of an organisation’s functioning such as health and safety, benefits and recruitment.
FAQs in HR and recruitment
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How can I get a job in HR?
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There are two main entry routes. You can start with an HR graduate training programme or an entry-level role as a HR administrator. Here you will have responsibility for matters such as updating files, contracts and scheduling interviews and work your way up.
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What are the different areas of specialisation in HR?
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Human resource professionals are involved in all areas of people management. HR generalists deal with a range of HR activities. In large multinationals you will often find specialists, for example in learning and development, recruitment or employee relations.
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What qualifications do I need to work in HR?
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While an HR degree is not necessary, it is an advantage, as is the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD) qualification. A list of CIPD-accredited programmes in Ireland is available on the CIPD website.
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